LOS ANGELES, USA – John Amos, the Emmy-nominated actor best known for his roles in Good Times, Roots, and Coming to America, has passed away at the age of 84.
His son, Kelly Christopher “K.C.” Amos announced the news stating that his father died of natural causes in Los Angeles on August 21.
“It is with heartfelt sadness that I share with you that my father has transitioned,” K.C. wrote.
“He was a man with the kindest heart and a heart of gold… and he was loved the world over. Many fans consider him their TV father. He lived a good life. His legacy will live on in his outstanding works in television and film as an actor.”
K.C. Amos added that his father remained passionate about his craft until the end.
“My father loved working as an actor throughout his entire life,” he said, referencing his most recent role in Suits LA and their joint documentary about his life journey, America’s Dad.
“He was my dad, my best friend, and my hero.”
K.C. Amos and John Amos attend the Norby Walters 25th annual night of 100 stars Oscar viewing gala at The Beverly Hilton Hotel on February 22, 2015 in Beverly Hills, California. | Tibrina Hobson/WireImage
A Legacy in Film and Television
Amos’s career spanned more than five decades, leaving an indelible mark on American television and film.
He first gained widespread recognition as Gordy Howard on The Mary Tyler Moore Show in 1970, but his portrayal of James Evans Sr. on Good Times made him a household name.
Good Times, which was the first television series to focus on a Black family, showcased Amos’s dedication to portraying authentic and real Black lives on screen, which led to creative differences with the show’s producers and his eventual departure in 1976.
“I had a way of voicing my differences against the script that weren’t acceptable to the creative staff,” Amos later recalled.
His strong beliefs about the portrayal of Black families led to him being labelled a “disruptive element,” but his departure did little to slow his career.
Amos earned an Emmy nomination for his role in the groundbreaking 1977 miniseries Roots, in which he played Kunta Kinte’s descendant, Toby.
“You don’t anticipate that kind of success because that’s dreaming and that’s one thing actors can’t afford to do,” he reflected in an interview with The Wrap in 2022. “We’ve got to deal in reality.”
His work continued throughout the ’80s and ’90s with notable roles on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Hunter, and 704 Hauser.
In 1988, he starred in Coming to America as Cleo McDowell, a role he reprised in the 2021 sequel.
Personal Challenges and Family Disputes
Amos’s later years were marred by personal challenges. In June 2023, he was hospitalized for heart issues caused by fluid buildup in his body.
His daughter, Shannon Amos, made allegations of elder abuse, which John Amos denied.
The Los Angeles Police Department launched an investigation into her claims but ultimately closed the case due to lack of evidence in April 2024.
Throughout the ordeal, Amos stood by his son, K.C., and expressed his gratitude for the authorities’ handling of the situation.
Amos also faced health concerns leading up to his death, but continued to work in the entertainment industry.
His final film appearances included Block Party and Me Time in 2022, and an episode of The Righteous Gemstones.
Tributes and Remembrances
Julia Buchwald, president of talent agency Buchwald, which represented Amos, expressed her condolences: “We were so proud to represent John. He was not only a remarkable talent but also a deeply kind and generous soul. His impact on the industry and those who knew him will never be forgotten.”
Actor Martin Lawrence expressed his grief, writing, “This one hits different. My condolences go out to the family of a true legend, John Amos.”
This one hits different. My condolences go out to the family of a true legend, John Amos 🙏🏾 pic.twitter.com/7MKqE7szVk
— Martin Lawrence (@realmartymar) October 1, 2024
Jimmie Walker, Amos’s Good Times co-star, also paid tribute, telling People, “John was a great actor and my condolences go out to his entire family, friends, and his many, many fans.”
Veteran weather presenter Al Roker also took to social media, reminiscing about Amos’s influential career and the inspiration he provided: “I remember him as Gordy The Weatherman at WJM [in The Mary Tyler Moore Show] when we was just starting as a TV weather guy in 1974 and seeing him as a role model. And when he quit Good Times, people respected him for his stand. He will be missed.”
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BernNadette Stanis, who portrayed Amos’s daughter Thelma on Good Times, shared an emotional video on Instagram responding to the news of his death.
“This is truly a sad moment for our cast and friends,” Stanis said. “We will all miss John Amos, our TV dad. Condolences to his children and family. John, you will live on through all of the people you have touched throughout your life. We love you and we are going to miss you. Your Baby Girl. ♥️ 🌹🙏🏽🕊️.”
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Amos’s influence extended beyond Good Times, with his West Wing co-stars also paying tribute.
Mary McCormack, who worked with Amos on the political drama, expressed her grief in a statement saying, “Goodbye, Fitz. It’s hard to believe that the great, beautiful actor John Amos is gone. The character he embodied on The West Wing was the epitome of grace, power, and leadership. John possessed all these qualities in abundance.”
McCormack, whose character viewed Amos’s Admiral Fitzwallace as a lifelong mentor, recalled her cherished memories with him on set. “Sitting alongside him in the Burbank version of the Situation Room were some of my most cherished memories from the whole experience. Thank you, John. It’s been an honour to serve with you.”
Richard Schiff, another West Wing co-star, also honoured Amos, calling him “a damn fine actor.”
In his statement to PEOPLE, Schiff reflected on Amos’s character and humility: “John was elite among good people. He emitted constant gratitude and grace. It was a pleasure and an honor to work with him.”
Reflecting on his legacy in a 2022 interview with TVLine, Amos said, “The truth of it is, when I started acting, I never thought I would live this long, much less be an actor. I’ve had a blessed career, and I attribute that to my faith in God and the fact that I was raised right.”
Amos’s impact on television and film, particularly his portrayal of strong Black fathers, remains his lasting legacy.
His work on Good Times and Roots inspired generations and ensured his place in television history.
